Thieves target allotments

ALLOTMENT holders have been left counting the cost after thieves broke into 20 sheds stealing equipment, tools and even plants.

Burglars targeted Whitehill Allotment Association, in Reddish, forcing their way into the office, the main communal shed and 19 others.

Among the items taken were two lawn mowers, four petrol strimmers, two rotavators, a camera and an electrical generator together worth between £2,000 to £3,000.

Individual allotment holders also fell victim, having less expensive tools stolen as well as £60-worth of plants from one shed.

John Graham, 71, from the society, said: “We are not very happy, we have a good perimeter fence but how do we keep people out? It is annoying, we are just taking part in a harmless pastime and some people go and ruin it for everyone.

“The things taken out of the main shed are used by everyone to go around keeping the place tidy.”

The site, on Whitehill Street West, was broken into some time between 9pm on July 4 and 9am on July 5.

The burglars broke in through the gate then took the hinges off shed doors.

CCTV that was placed on top of a pole and a hidden camera were also removed during the break-in.

John, a plot holder for four years, said: “They came well equipped and either knew about or found a hidden camera, which suggests they had done some preparation.”

In addition to the cost of stolen items there is damage to repair and the office was ransacked.

Police confirmed they were called to reports of a break-in and that officers are investigating. It is hoped witnesses will come forward as the thieves could have been on site for some time.

A police spokesman said: “It is such a shame when something like this happens where people are just trying to enjoy their hobby and spend their time constructively”

Contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111.